Dental Issues that a Mouthguard Can Help
- Feb 6 2023
A great oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits can go a long way toward protecting your oral and overall health, but there are certain instances where other measures may be necessary. For instance, if you suffer from teeth grinding or play contact sports, you may consider using a mouthguard.
Mouthguards can offer added protection in situations where you might damage your teeth or jeopardize your health. Learning more about them and the issues they can prevent can go a long way toward maintaining a healthy smile and living a happy life.
What is a Mouthguard?
Mouthguards are dental devices that can be custom-fitted to your mouth to prevent damage to your teeth and other issues with your oral and overall health.
The type of mouthguard you may be most familiar with is the kind worn during contact sports, but some night guards serve a different purpose. Night guards are worn during sleep to prevent damage from grinding and clenching the teeth.
The Different Types of Mouthguards
There are two types of mouthguards that your dentist might suggest you use: custom and boil-and-bite.
Custom Mouthguards
A custom mouthguard is made to perfectly fit your mouth with the help of a mold taken by your dentist. These mouthguards will be prescribed to you by your dentist in order to treat teeth grinding or clenching.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Although not as well fitting as custom guards, boil-and-bite mouthguards can be purchased over the counter and are most often used in contact sports. In order to get a good fit, the mouthguard is first boiled so that it softens up, then placed in the mouth and bitten down on. Once the mouthguard cools and hardens, it will form an impression of your mouth that will help keep it snug and comfortable when in use.
What are Mouthguards Used for?
Mouthguards can be used for various purposes, all of which protect your oral health, and prevent teeth from chips, cracks and fracturing.
Preventing Dental Injuries
One of the most common reasons for dental injuries is contact sports. Moving at high speeds, jumping, and diving in the vicinity of various elbows and knees can easily cause a broken or dislodged tooth or damage to the soft tissues of your mouth. The simple solution to this is wearing a mouthguard.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding or bruxism is an issue that can be caused by anything from anxiety to certain medications to genetics. Even some personality types can cause it. If the grinding is occurring while you sleep, one of the best ways to protect your teeth is to wear a custom mouthguard, also known as a night guard.
Protect Your Oral and Overall Health with a Mouthguard
If you’re looking for a dentist in Queens, NY, who can help treat bruxism, and other dental-related injuries, Payam Cohen, D.D.S., P.C. can help. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
Categories: Mouth Guards